Northern Arizona is a wonderful place to escape the chill of the northern climes. Among the many interesting and fun activities in the area is hot air ballooning. Outside of Phoenix you can take a sunrise you (or sunset) flight, soaring over the grandeur of the Sonoran Desert, watching the sun rise over the towering mountain ranges. A photographer will be in heaven with an unobstructed view from the balloon's hand-crafted wicker basket.
“Captain” Mike piloted our balloon, smoothly gliding over the desert scenery below, finally coming to a perfect three-point (I guess in a balloon it's a one-point) landing. Back on earth, we were treated to the over 100-year-old ritual of flutes of champagne. It seems that when ballooning first started in France, the balloonists would carry along bottles of champagne so that when they landed in farmer's fields, the drink would be quickly offered, proving that the strange fliers were not from another planet.
After champagne, we were treated to a gourmet breakfast on the landing site. The meal was designed by Chef Vincent Guerithault, chef/owner of Vincent Guerithault on Camelback.
Hot Air Balloon Flight Champagne Breakfast
Chilled Champagne
Orange Juice
Quiche Lorraine
Chocolate-filled Croissants
Soft Cheese
Seasonal Fresh Fruit
Ballooning is a great sport for all ages as witnessed by the children and over-fifties (including the author) present enjoying the rides.
Balloonist's Prayer
The winds have welcomed you with softness. The sun has blessed you with his warm hands. You have flown so well and so high that God has joined you in your laughter and let you gently back again into the arms of mother earth.
If You Go:
Phoenix:
Greater Phoenix Convention & Visitors Bureau 400 E. Van Buren, Ste 600, Phoenix, AZ 85004-2259 602-254-6500; www.visitphoenix.com
Ballooning:
Hot Air Expeditions: 2243 E. Rose Garden Loop, Phoenix, AZ 85024-4444; 480-502-6999; www.hotairexpeditions.com
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